The Best Gondii Berenji Recipe You’ll Ever Try

If you’ve never tasted Gondi Berenji, you’re in for an unforgettable culinary experience. This Persian dish features rice-based dumplings, typically filled with chicken, chickpeas, or lamb, and flavored with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s a dish full of warmth, tradition, and comfort. When you try it, you’ll experience the soft, pillowy texture of the rice dumplings, and the rich, savory broth that accompanies them. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 2 hours
Serving size: Serves 4-6 people
Difficulty: Medium

Preparation time

• Preparation time: 1 hour
• Cooking time: 1 hour
• Total time: 2 hours

Let’s get started on how to make this perfect Persian treat.

The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

• 1 cup short-grain rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 1 lb chicken breast (or 1 cup cooked chickpeas for a vegan version)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 egg (optional for binding, can be omitted for vegan version)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for extra zing)

For vegan variation:
Replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils. For the egg, you can substitute with a flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal mixed with 3 tbsp water, set aside to thicken). Coconut yogurt can also be used instead of the egg for a richer texture to bind the dumplings.

The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

1. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until golden and fragrant.
3. Add the chicken (or chickpeas for the vegan version) to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through (about 10 minutes). If using chicken, shred it into small pieces once cooked.
4. Add the chopped parsley, dill, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the cooked chicken or chickpeas. Mix well and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked and drained rice with the cooked chicken mixture.
6. Add the egg (if using) and mix well until everything is combined into a dough-like consistency. If it feels too dry, add a little broth or water to get the right texture.
7. Form small rice balls with the mixture, about the size of a golf ball.
8. Bring the broth to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, gently add the rice balls and reduce the heat to a simmer.
9. Cover the pot and cook the dumplings for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir gently once or twice to avoid sticking.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Tip: For a crispy exterior, you can lightly fry the dumplings in a pan with a little oil before adding them to the broth. You can also use an air fryer for a lighter crisp.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here’s why:

• High in Protein: The chicken (or chickpeas) provides a solid dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Rich in Fiber: The rice and herbs contribute a good amount of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health and maintaining blood sugar levels.
• Full of Vitamins: Parsley, dill, and other herbs are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immunity, skin health, and bone strength.
• Low in Fat (with vegan version): Opting for chickpeas and reducing the oil will lower the overall fat content, making it a heart-healthy option.
• Good for Bone Health: Cinnamon, cumin, and turmeric contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and improve joint health.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

Here are a few ways to elevate the flavor of Gondi Berenji:

• Spicy kick: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mixture if you like a bit of heat.
• Cheese filling: You can stuff the rice dumplings with a little feta or mozzarella cheese for a creamy surprise.
• Serve with yogurt: A side of creamy yogurt or tahini dip adds a beautiful contrast to the savory dumplings.
• Crispy onions: Garnish the dumplings with crispy fried onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Q&A

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, by using short-grain rice and ensuring the other ingredients (like the broth and herbs) are gluten-free, this dish can be entirely gluten-free.

Can I freeze the dumplings?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Just add them directly to boiling broth when you’re ready to cook them.

What can I use instead of chicken?

If you’re looking for a vegan version, you can use cooked chickpeas, lentils, or even tofu.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they are firm and no longer doughy in the center. You can test one by cutting it open.

Can I make this dish in the air fryer?

Yes, you can! Lightly spray the dumplings with oil and air fry them at 350°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, simmer them in the broth as usual.

How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with chickpeas, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein.

Can I serve this as an appetizer?

Absolutely! Just make the dumplings smaller and serve with a tangy dipping sauce.

How can I make the broth more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, you can add some garlic, ginger, and a cinnamon stick to the broth as it simmers.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice such as jasmine or basmati rice, but short-grain rice gives the best texture for this recipe.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Once they try Gondi Berenji, they’ll be asking for more. Let’s spread the joy of this Persian delicacy across the globe!